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Describe data and process modeling concepts and tools, including data flow diagrams, a data dictionary, and process descriptions Describe the symbols used in data flow diagrams and explain the rules for their use Draw data flow diagrams in a sequence, from general to specific Explain how to level and balance a set of data flow diagrams
Introduction
In this chapter, you use data and process modeling techniques to develop a logical model of the proposed system and document the system requirements
Logical model shows what the system must do Physical model describes how the system will be constructed
Inventory table
Select Vendor
Inventory table
Place Order
Data Dictionary
A data dictionary, or data repository, is a central storehouse of information about the systems data An analyst uses the data dictionary to collect, document, and organize specific facts about the system Also defines and describes all data elements and meaningful combinations of data elements
Data Dictionary
A data element, also called a data item or field, is the smallest piece of data that has meaning Data elements are combined into records, also called data structures A record is a meaningful combination of related data elements that is included in a data flow or retained in a data store
Data Dictionary
Documenting the Data Elements
You must document every data element in the data dictionary The objective is the same: to provide clear, comprehensive information about the data and processes that make up the system
Data Dictionary
Documenting the Data Elements
The following attributes usually are recorded and described
Data element name or label Alias Type and length Default value Acceptable values - Domain and validity rules
Data Dictionary
Documenting the Data Elements
The following attributes usually are recorded and described
Source Security Responsible user(s) Description and comments
Data Dictionary
Documenting the Data Flows
The typical attributes are as follows
Data flow name or label Description Alternate name(s) Origin Destination Record Volume and frequency
Data Dictionary
Documenting the Data Stores
Typical characteristics of a data store are
Data store name or label Description Alternate name(s) Attributes Volume and frequency
Data Dictionary
Documenting the Processes
Typical characteristics of a process
Process name or label Description Process number Process description
Data Dictionary
Documenting the Entities
Typical characteristics of an entity include
Entity name Description Alternate name(s) Input data flows Output data flows
Data Dictionary
Documenting the Records
Typical characteristics of a record include
Record or data structure name Definition or description Alternate name(s) Attributes
Data Dictionary
Data Dictionary Reports
Many valuable reports
An alphabetized list of all data elements by name A report describing each data element and indicating the user or department that is responsible for data entry, updating, or deletion A report of all data flows and data stores that use a particular data element Detailed reports showing all characteristics of data elements, records, data flows, processes, or any other selected item stored in the data dictionary
Chapter Summary
During data and process modeling, a systems analyst develops graphical models to show how the system transforms data into useful information The end product of data and process modeling is a logical model that will support business operations and meet user needs Data and process modeling involves three main tools: data flow diagrams, a data dictionary, and process descriptions
Chapter Summary
Data flow diagrams (DFDs) graphically show the movement and transformation of data in the information system DFDs use four symbols A set of DFDs is like a pyramid with the context diagram at the top The data dictionary is the central documentation tool for structured analysis
Chapter Summary
Each functional primitive process is documented using structured English, decision tables, and decision trees Structured analysis tools can be used to develop a logical model during one systems analysis phase, and a physical model during the systems design phase